2 Flames Named to Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Watch List

Two of the top players who hail from the state of Texas will play for the Flames in 2026 and were named to the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Watch List.

Offensive lineman Christian Williams and tight end LaKelsey Johnson, Jr., were among the 107 players named to the 14^th edition of this award's preseason watch list.

The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award recognizes the top offensive player in Division I football who also exhibits the enduring characteristics that define Earl Campbell: integrity, performance, teamwork, sportsmanship, drive, community and tenacity; specifically, tenacity to persist and determination to overcome adversity and injury in pursuit of reaching goals.

In addition, the nominee must meet one or more of the following criteria: played football at and graduated from a Texas high school and/or currently playing at a Texas NCAA Division I four-year college.

Williams returns for his second season with the Flames after starting all 12 games at right tackle in 2025. He was on the field for 69.7 percent of Liberty's offensive snaps (591-of-848) and ranked second on the team in pass blocking as ranked by PFF.com (70.1 grade).

The native of Houston, Texas, has been well recognized during the preseason. He was also named to the Phil Steele CUSA Preseason All-Conference third team, the Pro Football Network CUSA Preseason All-Conference third team and to the 2027 Shriners Children's 1000 Watch List.

Johnson is entering his first season with the Flames after transferring to Liberty from Baylor. He saw playing time in 37 games during the 2022-25 season and finished his time with the Bears with 23 receptions for 174 yards and a touchdown.

The native of Desoto, Texas, also received preseason recognition. He was named to both the Phil Steele CUSA Preseason All-Conference and the Athlon Sports CUSA Preseason All-Conference fourth teams.

Among the 109 players named to the preseason watch list included representatives from nine different FBS conferences and two players from independent programs.

Conference USA had 11 players named to the watch list. Joining Williams and Johnson were Delaware running back Viron Eillson, Jr., New Mexico State wide receiver TK King, Delaware wide receiver Da'Wain Lofton, WKU offensive lineman Nonson Omezi, Missouri State wide receiver Antonio Robinson, FIU tight end Jackson Verdugo, New Mexico State running back TJ Washington, Jr., MTSU wide receiver Hogan Wasson and New Mexico State wide receiver AJ Williams, Jr.

The watch list will be narrowed to up to 16 semifinalists in November and then up to five finalists in December. They will be selected by broadcasters, commentators, journalists, fans and previous winners.

The winner will be announced in December and celebrated at The Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Banquet scheduled for January 27, 2027, in Tyler, Texas.

2026 Football Season Ticket Information
Season tickets are on sale now for the 2026 season! Buying season tickets remains the best cost-saving option to watch Flames Football at Williams Stadium in 2026.

Starting at just $90, fans can save up to 56 percent by purchasing season tickets. Purchase tickets by going to www.LUFootball.com or calling/texting the Flames Ticket Office at (434) 592-5015.

Limited premium seating inventory remains available for club seats as well as cabanas. If you are interested, please contact the Flames Club at (434) 582-2582.

Schedule

2 Flames Named to Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award Watch List

Players Mentioned

LaKelsey Johnson, Jr.

Christian Williams

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